21-Day Kanto & Chubu Cultural + Nature Loop: Tokyo, Nikko, Kusatsu, Alps, Hokuriku, Fuji & Izu

Day 1: Arrival & Asakusa

Tokyo, Japan on August 19, 2025

8:30am

Breakfast at Tsukiji Outer Market

Fresh sushi, grilled seafood and tamagoyaki stalls give a lively introduction to Tokyo food culture; stalls open early, best before mid-afternoon.
CURRENCY2000, 1h0m.

10:00am

Senso-ji & Nakamise Shopping Street

Tokyo’s oldest temple and the colorful shopping arcade are ideal for cultural photos, local snacks, and temple rituals; temple grounds open early (approx 6:00–17:00).
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12:30pm

Lunch in Ueno Ameyoko

Bustling market street with yakitori, seafood bowls and street food; quick, casual eats and good value.
CURRENCY1500, 1h0m.

2:00pm

Ueno Park & Tokyo National Museum

Walk the park and visit Japan’s leading museum for samurai armor, Buddhist art and archaeological collections (museum typically 9:30am–5:00pm).
CURRENCY1000, 2h0m.

7:30pm

Dinner in Shinjuku Izakaya district

Try yakitori and small plates in a lively izakaya alley; Shinjuku offers many late-night dining options.
CURRENCY3000, 1h30m.

Day 2: Shibuya & Harajuku

Tokyo, Japan on August 20, 2025

9:00am

Breakfast — Harajuku crepes or café

Grab a sweet or savory crepe and coffee on Takeshita Street to experience youth-culture cuisine in Harajuku.
CURRENCY900, 0h45m.

10:00am

Meiji Shrine and Yoyogi Park

A large Shinto shrine set in a tranquil forested area offering cultural ceremony sights and a peaceful contrast to nearby shopping; shrine grounds open sunrise–sunset.
CURRENCY0, 1h30m.

12:30pm

Lunch in Omotesando

Stylish cafes and soba restaurants on tree-lined Omotesando provide refined Japanese and fusion options.
CURRENCY1800, 1h0m.

2:30pm

Shibuya Crossing & Hachiko

See the famous scramble crossing and explore Shibuya’s shopping arcades and vantage points for skyline photos.
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7:30pm

Dinner in Ebisu/Yoyogi Uehara

Try an upscale izakaya or yakitori spot popular with locals for an evening meal.
CURRENCY3000, 1h30m.

Day 3: Kamakura Coast

Kamakura, Japan on August 21, 2025

8:00am

Travel to Kamakura

Take the JR or Enoden lines from Tokyo (approx 1h–1h30m) to this historic coastal town founded during the samurai era.
CURRENCY1000, 1h0m.

9:30am

Kotoku-in (Great Buddha) & Hasedera

Visit the iconic bronze Great Buddha and nearby Hasedera with its hillside gardens and coastal views; temples open morning to late afternoon.
CURRENCY300, 1h30m.

12:30pm

Lunch on Komachi-dori

Street-food and local restaurants on bustling Komachi-dori are ideal for trying shirasu-don (whitebait) and traditional snacks.
CURRENCY1200, 1h0m.

2:30pm

Enoshima Island & Iwaya Caves

Walk the coastal boardwalk, visit Enoshima Shrine and explore sea caves (Iwaya) for ocean views; caves and island attractions typically open 9:00–17:00.
CURRENCY500, 2h30m.

6:30pm

Dinner — Shonan seafood

Enjoy seaside seafood restaurants around Enoshima or Kamakura before returning to Tokyo or staying locally.
CURRENCY2500, 1h15m.

Day 4: Yokohama Sights

Yokohama, Japan on August 22, 2025

8:30am

Breakfast at Minato Mirai cafés

Start at the waterfront with coffee and light pastries while enjoying bay views at the Landmark/Red Brick Warehouse area.
CURRENCY1200, 0h45m.

10:00am

CupNoodles Museum

Interactive museum where you can build and design a custom Cup Noodles and learn instant ramen history; open about 10:00–18:00.
CURRENCY500, 1h30m.

12:30pm

Lunch in Chinatown

Yokohama’s large Chinatown offers dim sum, steamed buns and regional Chinese specialties; vibrant and very walkable.
CURRENCY1500, 1h0m.

2:30pm

Sankeien Garden

A classic Japanese garden with historic teahouses and seasonal blooms (typically open 9:00–17:00) for a tranquil afternoon.
CURRENCY700, 1h45m.

6:30pm

Evening view from Landmark Tower or Cosmo Clock

See panoramic Yokohama lights from the observatory or waterfront Ferris wheel before dinner at the bay area.
CURRENCY1000, 1h0m.

Day 5: To Nikko

Nikko, Japan on August 23, 2025

7:30am

Travel Tokyo → Nikko

Take the JR/Tobu limited express (approx 2h); arrive mid-morning to begin sightseeing in Nikko National Park.
CURRENCY2500, 2h0m.

11:30am

Lunch near Nikko station

Try yuba (tofu-skin) specialties which the area is famous for, in a local soba or set-meal restaurant.
CURRENCY1500, 1h0m.

1:30pm

Toshogu Shrine

UNESCO mausoleum of Tokugawa Ieyasu with lavish carvings and historic architecture; open ~8:00–17:00 and a cultural highlight of Kanto.
CURRENCY1300, 2h0m.

4:00pm

Rinno-ji & Futarasan Shrines stroll

Short walks among related shrine complexes and cedar-lined approach paths that are atmospheric near dusk.
CURRENCY400, 1h0m.

7:00pm

Dinner at ryokan or local restaurant

Enjoy regional kaiseki or yuba dishes; many ryokan offer multi-course dinners if staying overnight.
CURRENCY4000, 1h30m.

Day 6: Oku-Nikko Lakes

Nikko, Japan on August 24, 2025

8:00am

Bus to Lake Chuzenji & Kegon Falls

Scenic bus up to Lake Chuzenji with views of Kegon Falls; Kegon Ropeway usually operates 9:00–17:00 for the observation deck.
CURRENCY1200, 1h30m.

10:00am

Kegon Falls observation & photo stops

See one of Japan’s dramatic waterfalls with good vantage points and a pleasant lakeside walk.
CURRENCY570, 1h0m.

12:30pm

Lakeside lunch

Relax at a lakeside café with trout or tempura overlooking Lake Chuzenji.
CURRENCY1500, 1h0m.

2:30pm

Senjogahara Marshboardwalk

Easy flat hike across marshlands with alpine flora and mountain vistas; bring insect repellent in summer.
CURRENCY0, 1h30m.

6:30pm

Onsen evening

Return to Nikko area for an onsen soak — a perfect way to unwind after a day of hiking.
CURRENCY1000, 1h30m.

Day 7: Kusatsu Onsen

Kusatsu, Japan on August 25, 2025

8:00am

Travel Nikko → Kusatsu

Journey across prefectural borders by train + bus (approx 3h); enjoy mountain scenery en route.
CURRENCY3000, 3h0m.

12:00pm

Lunch near Yubatake

Sample local dishes near Kusatsu’s iconic hot-water field (Yubatake) which is the town’s symbolic geyser-like hot water feature.
CURRENCY1200, 1h0m.

2:00pm

Yubatake & Sainokawara Park

Explore Kusatsu’s steaming Yubatake district and the adjacent Sainokawara open-air baths and thermal landscapes.
CURRENCY0, 1h30m.

4:00pm

Public onsen or ryokan bath

Try a communal public onsen or your ryokan’s private bath; many facilities are available until evening hours.
CURRENCY800, 1h0m.

7:00pm

Kaiseki dinner at ryokan

Enjoy a multi-course, seasonal Japanese dinner if staying at a ryokan — a cultural culinary experience.
CURRENCY5000, 1h30m.

Day 8: To Matsumoto

Matsumoto, Japan on August 26, 2025

8:00am

Travel Kusatsu → Matsumoto

Scenic rail and bus journey heading west into Nagano Prefecture (approx 3–4h).
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1:00pm

Lunch — local soba

Matsumoto is famous for soba noodles; pick a reputable soba-ya near the castle area.
CURRENCY1200, 1h0m.

2:30pm

Matsumoto Castle

One of Japan’s premier original castles with black exterior and storied keep; open typically 8:30–5:00 for visits.
CURRENCY610, 1h30m.

4:30pm

Nawate Street & Nakamachi

Stroll the historic merchant streets lined with craft shops, cafés and pottery stores — great for souvenirs.
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7:00pm

Dinner — local izakaya

Try local sake and mountain vegetables (sansai) in a cozy izakaya.
CURRENCY2500, 1h30m.

Day 9: Kamikochi Day

Kamikochi (from Matsumoto), Japan on August 27, 2025

6:30am

Early bus/train to Kamikochi

Depart Matsumoto by bus or train+buses early (approx 1.5–2h); Kamikochi is a highland valley closed to private cars and perfect for alpine walking (seasonal access Apr–Nov).
CURRENCY2500, 2h0m.

9:00am

Kamikochi nature walk

Gentle hikes along the Azusa River with views of Hotaka and Yakedake peaks; well-marked trails range from easy riverside strolls to longer hikes.
CURRENCY0, 3h0m.

12:30pm

Lakeside lunch or bento

Lunch at a mountain hut or bring a bento to eat by Kappa Bridge or Taisho Pond for postcard views.
CURRENCY1200, 1h0m.

3:30pm

Return to Matsumoto

Head back in the afternoon to Matsumoto for an evening at leisure; buses typically return before dusk.
CURRENCY2500, 2h0m.

7:30pm

Dinner near station

Relaxed dinner; consider trying local grilled trout or mountain vegetable dishes.
CURRENCY2200, 1h30m.

Day 10: To Takayama

Takayama, Japan on August 28, 2025

8:00am

Travel Matsumoto → Takayama

Take the limited express/train via Nagoya or direct via highland routes (approx 2.5–3.5h) into the old merchant town of Takayama.
CURRENCY4200, 3h0m.

12:30pm

Lunch — Hida beef

Try Hida-gyu (Hida beef) in Takayama, a regional specialty often served as steak or on rice bowls.
CURRENCY2500, 1h0m.

2:00pm

Takayama Old Town stroll & Takayama Jinya

Wander preserved Edo-period streets and visit Takayama Jinya, the historic government house; streets are atmospheric and ideal for photos.
CURRENCY430, 2h0m.

5:00pm

Evening Takayama Market / Sake tasting

Try local sake at small tasting bars and visit the evening markets when running; the town has a strong craft and sake tradition.
CURRENCY1500, 1h30m.

7:30pm

Dinner at local izakaya

Enjoy regional dishes and seasonal mountain produce in a relaxed setting.
CURRENCY2500, 1h30m.

Day 11: Shirakawa-go Excursion

Shirakawa-go (day trip from Takayama), Japan on August 29, 2025

9:00am

Bus to Shirakawa-go

Scenic 50–60 minute bus ride to the UNESCO-listed gassho-zukuri village famed for steep thatched roofs.
CURRENCY1100, 1h0m.

10:15am

Explore Ogimachi village & observatory

Walk through thatched-roof houses, visit Wada House and the viewpoint overlooking the village; best for cultural architecture photography.
CURRENCY500, 1h45m.

12:30pm

Lunch at a minshuku or soba shop

Sample hearty mountain soba or seasonal set meals served in family-run inns.
CURRENCY1500, 1h0m.

2:30pm

Optional museum or farmstay visit

Visit a local museum about gassho architecture or meet craftspeople; you can also arrange short farmstead experiences.
CURRENCY800, 1h30m.

5:00pm

Return to Takayama

Evening return bus to Takayama and leisurely dinner in town.
CURRENCY1100, 1h0m.

Day 12: To Kanazawa

Kanazawa, Japan on August 30, 2025

8:30am

Travel Takayama → Kanazawa (via JR/Bus)

Journey west through the foothills (approx 2.5–3h). Kanazawa is a well-preserved samurai and geisha city on the Sea of Japan coast.
CURRENCY3200, 3h0m.

12:30pm

Lunch at Omicho Market

Kanazawa’s lively market is perfect for fresh seafood bowls, grilled items and local produce.
CURRENCY1800, 1h0m.

2:30pm

Kenrokuen Garden & Kanazawa Castle

One of Japan’s top three gardens (open early morning to evening) paired with the nearby castle and reconstructed turrets for classic landscapes and history.
CURRENCY320, 2h0m.

5:00pm

Nagamachi samurai district

Walk narrow lanes with earthen walls and preserved samurai houses; calm late-afternoon light makes for great photos.
CURRENCY0, 1h0m.

7:00pm

Dinner — Kaga cuisine

Try Kaga-style local dishes in a ryotei or izakaya, featuring seafood and seasonal ingredients.
CURRENCY3500, 1h30m.

Day 13: Toyama Gateway

Toyama, Japan on August 31, 2025

8:30am

Travel Kanazawa → Toyama

Short coastal train ride (~20–30 minutes on the JR Hakutaka/Shinkansen corridor), Toyama is the base for the Tateyama Kurobe Alpine Route.
CURRENCY1200, 0h45m.

10:30am

Toyama Glass Art Museum / Castle Park

Visit the contemporary glass art museum and stroll Toyama Castle grounds for a mix of modern craft and green space.
CURRENCY300, 1h30m.

12:30pm

Lunch — seafood in Toyama Bay

Try sushi or hotaru-ika (firefly squid) if in season; Toyama Bay is famous for rich seafood.
CURRENCY2000, 1h0m.

3:00pm

Prepare for Alpine Route / buy tickets

Pick up reserved tickets, check schedules and logistics for the full-day Tateyama-Kurobe Alpine Route (operational season Apr–Nov), rest and stay near Toyama or Tateyama terminal.
CURRENCY0, 1h0m.

7:00pm

Dinner — local izakaya

Relax with Toyama specialties and prepare for an early Alpine start the next day.
CURRENCY2500, 1h30m.

Day 14: Tateyama–Kurobe Route

Tateyama / Kurobe, Japan on September 1, 2025

6:30am

Start Tateyama Kurobe Alpine Route

Full-day crossing via cablecars, trolley buses and ropeways through alpine scenery (snow corridor season varies); the route typically runs 7:00–17:00 but exact segment times vary—plan a full day.
CURRENCY10000, 9h0m.

9:30am

Murodo & alpine walking

At higher elevations you can walk short trails, see alpine plants and dramatic mountain views; clothing for cool winds recommended even in summer.
CURRENCY0, 2h0m.

1:00pm

Kurobe Dam stop & observation

Visit Kurobe Dam — Japan’s largest dam with spectacular spillways and observation areas; a highlight of the route.
CURRENCY0, 1h0m.

4:30pm

Complete route and transfer to evening accommodation

Finish in Omachi or Toyama depending on route direction; relax after a long day of transport and alpine vistas.
CURRENCY0, 1h30m.

7:30pm

Dinner near hotel

Enjoy a quiet dinner and rest after a full-day alpine experience.
CURRENCY3000, 1h30m.

Day 15: To Hakone

Hakone, Japan on September 2, 2025

8:00am

Travel Toyama/Omachi → Hakone (Odawara)

Long rail journey (approx 4–5h by Shinkansen + local train) to Odawara/Hakone area; plan for travel and a relaxed afternoon arrival.
CURRENCY8000, 4h30m.

1:30pm

Lunch near Odawara

Simple lunch by the station or try Odawara’s local fish specialties before heading up to Hakone.
CURRENCY1200, 1h0m.

3:00pm

Hakone Open-Air Museum (if time)

An outdoor sculpture park combined with indoor galleries and hot-spring footbaths; typically open 9:00–17:00.
CURRENCY1600, 1h30m.

5:30pm

Check in to ryokan & onsen

Unwind in a traditional ryokan with private or public onsen and an evening kaiseki meal.
CURRENCY8000, 2h0m.

Day 16: Hakone Sights

Hakone, Japan on September 3, 2025

8:30am

Breakfast at ryokan

Enjoy a traditional Japanese breakfast before a day of lakeside sightseeing.
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9:30am

Hakone Shrine & Lake Ashi pirate ship

Visit the red torii by the lakeshore and cruise Lake Ashi on a sightseeing boat for views of the caldera lake and, weather permitting, Mount Fuji.
CURRENCY1500, 2h0m.

12:30pm

Lunch at Moto-Hakone

Lakeside cafés and soba shops offer scenic lunches near the torii and boat docks.
CURRENCY1500, 1h0m.

2:30pm

Owakudani Valley (check volcanic advisories)

Visit steaming volcanic valley for sulfuric vents and black eggs; Owakudani may close due to volcanic activity—check real-time advisories.
CURRENCY1000, 1h30m.

7:00pm

Dinner & soak at ryokan

Another onsen dinner and relaxation to prepare for travel to Mt. Fuji region.
CURRENCY7000, 1h30m.

Day 17: Fuji Five Lakes

Fujikawaguchiko, Japan on September 4, 2025

8:00am

Travel Hakone → Kawaguchiko

Transfer by train and bus (approx 2–3h) into the Fuji Five Lakes area for spectacular Mt. Fuji viewpoints.
CURRENCY2500, 2h30m.

11:00am

Chureito Pagoda & Arakurayama Park

Iconic photospot with pagoda framed by Mt. Fuji — climb the steps for classic panoramic views (best clear-morning).
CURRENCY0, 1h0m.

12:30pm

Lunch near Kawaguchiko station

Try hoto noodle, a hearty local noodle stew favored in the Yamanashi region.
CURRENCY1200, 1h0m.

2:30pm

Lake Kawaguchi cruise & Oishi Park

Leisurely cruise on the lake and stroll Oishi Park for seasonal flowers and views of Mt. Fuji over the water.
CURRENCY1200, 1h30m.

6:30pm

Onsen & dinner

Stay at a local onsen hotel with Fuji views or return to Tokyo area; enjoy local wine and Yamanashi produce for dinner.
CURRENCY5000, 1h30m.

Day 18: Izu Peninsula

Ito / Jogasaki Coast, Japan on September 5, 2025

8:00am

Travel Kawaguchiko → Ito (Izu Peninsula)

Head south via train (approx 2–3h) to the scenic Izu coastline, known for hot springs and rugged shores.
CURRENCY2500, 2h30m.

11:00am

Jogasaki Coast Hike & Suspension Bridge

A pleasant coastal cliff walk with dramatic ocean views and the famous suspension bridge; ideal for nature and photography.
CURRENCY0, 1h30m.

12:30pm

Seafood lunch in Ito

Fresh catches and sashimi set lunches are specialties of the Izu coast.
CURRENCY1800, 1h0m.

3:00pm

Izu-Shimoda or Sengen Shrine visit

Explore southern Izu towns or visit local shrines and beaches for a relaxed afternoon.
CURRENCY800, 2h0m.

7:00pm

Onsen stay in Izu

Overnight at an onsen ryokan with ocean-view baths and seafood kaiseki for dinner.
CURRENCY8000, 2h0m.

Day 19: Nagatoro Nature

Nagatoro, Saitama, Japan on September 6, 2025

7:30am

Travel Izu → Nagatoro (Saitama)

Long rail transfer via Tokyo toward Saitama (approx 3.5–4.5h); arrive midday to explore the Chichibu area.
CURRENCY3000, 4h0m.

12:30pm

Lunch in Nagatoro

Local soba and riverbank cafés are perfect before outdoor activities.
CURRENCY1200, 1h0m.

2:00pm

Boat ride / river rafting & Iwadatami rocks

Short wooden boat rides or gentle rafting on the Arakawa River show dramatic rock formations (Iwadatami) and scenic gorges; operators run afternoon tours.
CURRENCY3000, 1h30m.

4:30pm

Hike or ropeway to view Tokyo Sky panorama

Short hikes and observation points provide valley views; a restful nature break before returning to Tokyo.
CURRENCY500, 1h0m.

7:30pm

Return to Tokyo for evening

Head back to central Tokyo (approx 1.5–2h) for final nights in the city.
CURRENCY1500, 2h0m.

Day 20: Tokyo Museums & Views

Tokyo, Japan on September 7, 2025

9:00am

Imperial Palace East Gardens

Serene gardens and castle moats in central Tokyo offering history and seasonal flora; gardens typically open 9:00–4:30.
CURRENCY0, 1h30m.

11:30am

Lunch in Ginza

Upscale dining or conveyor-belt sushi for quick quality lunch in Tokyo’s high-fashion district.
CURRENCY2500, 1h0m.

1:30pm

Asahi Beer Hall / Sumida riverwalk & Tokyo Skytree

Stroll riverside to Tokyo Skytree, with shopping and observation decks open approx 8:00–10:00pm for skyline views (Skytree entry paid).
CURRENCY3400, 2h0m.

5:30pm

teamLab Planets or Mori Art Museum (optional)

Modern digital art or contemporary art exhibits offer a cultural counterpoint to historic sites—check opening hours and reserve in advance.
CURRENCY3200, 1h30m.

8:00pm

Final dinner — memorable Tokyo meal

Choose a special dinner (kaiseki, tempura, or sushi counter) to celebrate the trip’s end; reservations recommended.
CURRENCY8000, 2h0m.

Day 21: Departure / Last Strolls

Tokyo, Japan on September 8, 2025

7:30am

Breakfast & pack

Final Japanese breakfast at your accommodation or nearby café; confirm transport to airport/station and luggage arrangements.
CURRENCY1200, 0h45m.

9:00am

Optional short visit — local shrine or market

If time allows before departure, visit a nearby shrine, local market or do last-minute souvenir shopping.
CURRENCY0, 1h0m.

11:00am

Travel to airport / station

Transfer to Narita/Haneda depending on flights or to the shinkansen station for onward travel; allow ample time for check-in and security.
CURRENCY3000, 2h0m.

2:00pm

Departure

Board your flight or continue your onward journey with memories of Kanto and Chubu landscapes and culture.
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